Delivery System and Components Therefor

ABSTRACT

An improved delivery system and a delivery method in which a receptacle comprises a housing which is configured to be moved between an expanded configuration and a contracted configuration. In the expanded configuration, the housing defines a cavity to receive one or more items. The receptacle may be configured to self-configure into an expanded configuration on receipt of a delivery signal from a delivery service. The receptacle may further include a sensor to detect tampering or unauthorized access to the cavity, and an alarm system to generate an alarm signal on detecting tampering or unauthorized access.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to New Zealand patent application number 779903, filed on Sep. 15, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The present technology relates to an improved delivery system and components therefor, and may find particular application in, but is not limited to, secure sending and delivery, last mile logistics, and automated sending and delivery.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Parcels and mail have traditionally been delivered to residential and business addressees by conventional mail and courier delivery services. In many cases, the mail or parcels are left in an unsecured letter box, on a doorstep, or passed directly to a receiver (if one is available).

The rise of ecommerce has increased parcel volumes and delivery of other items. More and more consumers are choosing the convenience of buying online and having their items delivered to the doorstep. In addition, lower costs and range offered by ecommerce retailers have led to consumers preferring to shop online for most goods ranging from clothing to furniture, and perishable goods like groceries or takeaways.

The rise in parcel volume implies that individual consumers are receiving more parcels than ever before. In addition, postal and delivery service providers may also pick up packages directly from a sender. However, it can be inconvenient for people to wait for parcel delivery or pickup. Therefore, there is a need for a system that facilitates secure and convenient delivery and/or pick-up of parcels.

Delivery services frequently leave packages unattended at a delivery address in an attempt to eliminate the need to reschedule the delivery and reduce costs. However, these unattended packages can be easily stolen, which is of particular concern where high-value goods are involved.

Also, in the absence of the addressee, the personnel delivering the goods have no way of checking that the delivery is made at the correct address. That is relevant as delivery to the wrong address can lead to loss of packages.

Alternatively, many delivery companies ask recipients to visit a collection depot to collect a package that could not be delivered for some reason. This may be inconvenient for the recipients.

Similarly, sending parcels can be affected by security concerns. Leaving packages unattended to await collection introduces the risk that they may be stolen and there are few mechanisms for an individual to confirm that the parcel has in fact been collected. The alternative is for the individual to drop the package at a delivery service which can be inconvenient.

Mailboxes and mail slots are a traditional way to reduce theft and loss of packages. However, these may not be able to receive parcels or packages of different shapes and sizes.

Mailboxes can be designed to receive the types of packages which a recipient may receive. However, these may not be suitable for use in a given location due to space limitations, or requirements such as body corporate or local authority regulations.

A further barrier to cost effective delivery of parcels can be in relation to locating the appropriate delivery site. While mailboxes can be placed in conspicuous locations, that is not always the case. Some systems facilitate delivery using GPS coordinates, but delivery people still have to spend time locating the mailbox.

Moreover, mailboxes are usually unlocked or have an unsophisticated locking mechanism of inadequate strength. They cannot record or identify the personnel accessing the items placed inside. Therefore, conventional mailboxes can neither facilitate a secure pick-up by an authorized service provider nor can they ensure that the delivered goods are only accessed by the addressee or personnel authorized by the addressee.

The shipping industry employs a hub and spoke model where goods are usually transported in bulk to nodal distribution centers or hubs and from thereon to the addressee. The final leg of the delivery process from the central hub to the final address is often referred to as last mile logistics. The challenges for delivery services outlined above are a significant problem for the ecommerce industry and those businesses providing last mile delivery services.

In fact, a significant portion of delivery costs are often incurred in the last mile transport or in parcel pick-up services.

Objects of the Technology

It is an object of the technology to provide an improved delivery system, components therefor, and an improved delivery method.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system and apparatus that can be controlled to be placed in an expanded configuration and/or a contracted configuration, and a method of using the delivery system and apparatus.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system, apparatus and method that provide restricted access to the delivery system and apparatus.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system and apparatus that restricts access selectively only to those goods placed inside the delivery system to which an authorized user is allowed access, and a method of using the delivery system and apparatus.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system and apparatus that can receive goods from an authorized user, and a method of using the delivery system and apparatus.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system, apparatus and method that can detect, verify and/or record the identity of an entity seeking to access the delivery system.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system that generates a signal when it detects unauthorized access.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system, apparatus and method that facilitates location of the delivery system by a user.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system and apparatus that can measure at least one property of an item placed inside the delivery system or apparatus, and a method of using the delivery system and apparatus.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system and apparatus that can secure and/or monitor items placed inside the delivery system and apparatus, and a method of using the delivery system and apparatus.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a delivery system and apparatus that transmits data to a monitoring system, and a method of using the delivery system and apparatus.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of the technology, there is provided a receptacle for a delivery system, wherein the receptacle comprises: a housing, wherein the housing is configured to be arranged in an expanded configuration and a contracted configuration, wherein in the expanded configuration the housing defines a cavity to receive one or more items, and an actuator configured to move the housing from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration.

According to an aspect of the technology, there is provided a delivery method, the method using a delivery system having a receptacle as substantially described herein, the method comprising the steps of:

-   -   a) providing a delivery signal to the receptacle;     -   b) allowing the receptacle to self-configure into an expanded         configuration which defines a cavity;     -   c) providing an item in the cavity.

According to an aspect of the technology, there is provided a method of sending items, the method using a delivery system having a receptacle as substantially described herein, the method comprising the steps of:

-   -   a) providing the receptacle;     -   b) causing the receptacle to be arranged in an expanded         configuration which defines a cavity;     -   c) providing in the cavity an item that is to be sent.

According to an aspect of the technology, there is provided a delivery system, wherein the delivery system comprises a receptacle as substantially described herein, and a delivery service, wherein the delivery service and the receptacle are configured to communicate with each other to send and receive delivery signals, and wherein the receptacle is configured to, on receipt of a delivery signal from the delivery service, self-configure into an expanded configuration which defines a cavity.

According to an aspect of the technology, there is provided a receptacle for a delivery system, wherein the receptacle comprises:

a housing that defines a cavity configured to receive one or more items, wherein the housing is configured to selectively provide access to the cavity, and wherein the system is configured to receive a delivery signal from a delivery service, and wherein on receipt of the delivery signal, the receptacle is configured to allow access to the cavity.

According to an aspect of the technology, there is provided a delivery method, the method

using a delivery system as substantially described herein, wherein the method comprises the steps of:

-   -   a) providing the receptacle;     -   b) receiving at least one delivery signal from the delivery         service;     -   c) causing the receptacle, on receipt of the at least one         delivery signal, to be arranged in an expanded configuration         which defines a cavity; and     -   d) providing an item in the cavity.

According to an aspect of the technology, there is provided a delivery method, the method using a delivery system as substantially described herein, wherein the method comprises the steps of:

-   -   a) providing the receptacle;     -   b) receiving at least one delivery signal from the delivery         service;     -   c) confirming if the delivery service is authorized;     -   d) causing the receptacle, on confirming that the delivery         service is authorized, to be arranged in an expanded         configuration which defines a cavity; and     -   e) providing an item in the cavity.

According to an aspect of the technology, there is provided a receptacle for a delivery system, wherein the receptacle comprises:

-   -   a housing that defines a cavity configured to receive one or         more items,     -   a sensor configured to detect at least one of tampering and         unauthorized access to the cavity, and     -   an alarm system configured to generate an alarm signal         indicating that the sensor has detected tampering or         unauthorized access.

According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a delivery method, the method comprising the steps of:

-   -   a) providing a receptacle as substantially described herein,     -   b) monitoring the receptacle to detect at least one of tampering         with a component of the receptacle and unauthorized access to         the cavity,     -   c) sending an alarm signal indicating that tampering or         unauthorized access has occurred.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “delivery system” should be understood as meaning an arrangement of components that facilitates the delivery of one or more items.

In embodiments, the delivery system according to the present technology facilitates delivery and sending of items. This should become clearer from the following discussion.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “item” should be understood as meaning any object that is to be delivered via a delivery system according to the present technology. For instance, an item may be a parcel, package, letter or other object that is to be delivered and/or picked-up through the delivery system.

Throughout the present specification reference will be made to a “recipient” which should be understood as meaning a person or entity to whom/which the item is to be delivered.

Throughout the present specification reference will be made to a “sender” which should be understood as meaning a person or entity who organizes an item to be sent.

For instance, the recipient and/or the sender may be a human being, an organization and/or a robotic entity. The foregoing does not limit the definition of the recipient and/or the sender only to the mentioned entities.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “delivery service” should be understood as a person or entity who is and/or belongs to a delivery service provider that/who delivers and/or receives one or more items to/from the delivery system.

In an embodiment, the delivery service may be a human being. For instance, the delivery service may be a courier or a mail carrier. In these embodiments, the delivery service may have a delivery unit as described in more detail below.

Throughout the present embodiment, reference to a “delivery unit” should be understood as meaning a component which facilitates communication between at least two of the delivery service, the recipient, the sender, and the receptacle.

In an embodiment, the delivery unit may be an electronic device. In a preferred embodiment, the delivery unit may be a smart phone. In another embodiment, the delivery unit may be a computer or a tablet.

Alternatively, or in addition, the delivery unit may include a computer application or a smart phone application.

The above embodiments are not to be understood as limiting. The delivery unit may be any device/component which is configured to facilitate communication between the delivery service, the recipient, the sender and/or the receptacle.

In another embodiment, the delivery service may be a robotic entity, including, but not limited to, a drone. In these embodiments, the delivery service may be configured to send and receive signals or otherwise communicate with other components of the delivery system, the sender and/or recipient.

These aspects of the present technology should become clearer from the following description.

In an embodiment, the delivery system includes a receptacle.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “receptacle” should be understood as meaning an object that can receive, secure and/or facilitate pick-up of, one or more items.

In preferred embodiments, the receptacle can prevent unauthorized access to item(s) located inside the receptacle.

In a preferred embodiment, the receptacle may be weatherproof e.g. can protect item(s) inside the cavity from water, wind, sunlight etc. In embodiments, at least a portion of the receptacle is constructed from materials which are UV resistant and/or water resistant. In addition, the components of the receptacle may be designed and arranged to prevent water ingress into the cavity.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include a cover which protects the other components of the receptacle and the items inside the cavity from water, wind, sunlight and other elements of weather.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “housing” should be understood as meaning a component or a plurality of components which can be configured to form a cavity to receive the item(s).

In an embodiment, the housing comprises one or more panels. When arranged in the expanded configuration, the panels define the cavity.

The panel(s) may provide one or more of a pair of side walls, a pair of end walls, a base wall and a top wall e.g. to define a cuboid or rectangular parallelepiped. Alternatively, the housing may include other numbers of walls to define other shapes e.g. a triangular pyramid or three-dimensional pentagon.

In other embodiments, the housing may have a cylindrical shape.

In an embodiment, the housing of the receptacle includes at least one opening through which item(s) can be placed in, or removed from, the cavity.

Preferably, the housing comprises at least one closure element which can selectively allow access through the opening and into the cavity.

The closure element may be provided by a/the panel/s of the housing. The panel(s) may be movable with respect to the other panel(s) to allow access into the cavity e.g. the panel(s) may be mounted to a hinge or sliding track.

Alternatively, the closure element may be provided by a separate door which is provided in a panel.

In an embodiment, the opening is formed by the one or more panels being configured to be displaced. In a preferred embodiment, the opening is formed by the one or more panels swinging open, preferably by a hinge. In another embodiment, at least one of the one or more panels may be removable to allow access to the cavity.

In an embodiment, a portion of the one or more panels is configured to be displaced to form the opening. In a preferred embodiment, the portion of the panel(s) is/are configured to swing open, preferably by means of a hinge attachment. In another embodiment, the portion of the panel(s) may be removable to provide the opening.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include a fastener.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “fastener” should be understood as meaning an arrangement to secure the receptacle in a location.

In an embodiment, the fastener facilitates attaching the receptacle to another object e.g. a building, adjustable mounting frame, step, floor, porch, tree, post, pillar, etc.

In an embodiment, one of the one or more panels forming the cavity is secured to the fastener.

In a preferred embodiment, the panel(s) forming a lowermost wall of the cavity is secured to the fastener. The lowermost wall may be the base. In another embodiment, panel(s) forming one of the side/end walls may be secured to the fastener.

In another preferred embodiment, the cavity does not include a lowermost wall or a side wall. A surface of the fastener where the receptacle is attached forms a surface of the cavity which is otherwise provided by the lowermost wall or the side wall respectively. For instance, a floor of a building may provide the base for a receptacle which is attached to the floor. Similarly, if a receptacle is attached to a wall of a building, the building's wall may form a side wall of the receptacle.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “expanded configuration” should be understood as meaning an arrangement in which the components forming the cavity are arranged to increase the dimensions of the housing.

In the expanded configuration the housing defines a cavity in which items to be sent or delivered can be placed.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “contracted configuration” should be understood as meaning an arrangement in which the components forming the cavity are arranged to provide a housing with relatively smaller dimensions compared to the dimensions when in the expanded configuration.

In an embodiment, when in the contracted configuration the receptacle may resemble a floor mat. For instance, in the contracted configuration, the housing may be substantially flat or have a low profile e.g. reduced height. The floor mat may also resemble a door mat when positioned in front of a door.

In an embodiment, the panel(s) of the receptacle are movable with respect to each other. In use, the panel(s) can be moved relative to each other to be arranged in the expanded configuration and the contracted configuration.

In a preferred embodiment, the moveable attachment between the panels may be achieved by means of components such as, but not limited to, hinges, slides, etc.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include one or more actuators.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “actuator” should be understood as meaning a mechanism configured to move the housing from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the actuator(s) may be configured to move the housing from the expanded arrangement to the contracted arrangement.

The actuator(s) include(s) at least one drive unit which is configured to provide force to move the housing between the contracted configuration and the expanded configuration.

In an embodiment, the drive unit may be one or more of linear actuator(s), and/or rotary actuator(s). For instance, the drive unit may be a servo motor, a stepper motor, a ball and screw system or a belt drive actuator. Alternatively, the drive unit may include one or more of a spring-based actuator, a screw thread actuator, a hydraulic ram or a pneumatic ram.

In a preferred embodiment, the linear actuator may be a pen actuator.

In an embodiment, the actuator(s) may include a linkage configured to transfer force provided by the drive unit(s) between components. For instance, the linkage may include one or more link arms, an X-linkage having a pair of link arms, a telescoping component etc.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include a closure actuator which is configured to move the closure element with respect to the housing to thereby allow selective access into the cavity. For instance, the closure actuator may be configured to move a component of the receptacle to expose an aperture into the cavity. In embodiments, the closure actuator may be configured to move a component to block the aperture and thereby prevent access to the cavity.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include a control system.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “control system” should be understood as meaning an assembly of components configured to control operation of at least one component of the receptacle.

In an embodiment, the control system includes at least one processing unit.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include a power source for the control system and/or the actuators. For instance, the power source may be a solar power array, battery pack, or a connection to a main power supply such as a standard plug configured to connect to an electrical mains power supply.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include a communication system.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “communication system” should be understood as meaning a component or an assembly of components configured to send and receive messages and signals. For instance, the communication system may be configured to send and receive communication signals with at least one of a delivery service, a recipient, and a sender.

In an embodiment, the communication system may include a receiver which is configured to receive a delivery signal from a delivery service, a recipient and/or a sender. The communication system is further configured to relay the received delivery signal to the at least one processing unit.

In an embodiment, the delivery signal may be used to validate credentials of a delivery service, recipient and/or a sender. The delivery signal may be related to, but not limited to, facial features, voice, fingerprints, iris and other physical signatures of personnel. The delivery signal may also be a RF tag, a QR code, a unique alphanumerical identifier, and/or a barcode.

In an embodiment, the control system may include a memory storage device which is configured to store user-confirmation data to verify whether a delivery service, a recipient and/or a sender is authorized. If a delivery signal sent by the delivery service, recipient and/or sender matches user-confirmation data stored in the memory storage device, then the delivery service, the recipient and/or the sender is authorization to access the receptacle.

Alternatively, the control system may be configured to compare the delivery signal to user-confirmation data stored on a cloud-based platform to determine whether a delivery service, recipient and/or sender is authorized to access the receptacle.

In an embodiment, the control system is configured to initiate the actuator(s) to configure the housing into the expanded configuration and/or the contracted configuration.

Preferably, the control system is configured to initiate the actuator(s) to configure the housing into the expanded configuration after confirming that a delivery service, recipient and/or sender is authorized.

In an embodiment, the method of delivering items may include one or more of the following steps, wherein the steps may be in any order:

-   -   a) receiving a delivery signal from a delivery service;     -   b) transmitting the delivery signal to the at least one         processing unit;     -   c) sending a signal to initiate the at least one actuator; and     -   d) configuring the housing to be placed in the expanded         configuration.

In an embodiment, the method of sending items may include one or more of the following steps, wherein the steps may be in any order:

-   -   a) receiving a delivery signal from the delivery service;     -   b) transmitting the delivery signal to the at least one         processing unit;     -   c) verifying if the delivery service is authorized; and     -   d) sending a signal to initiate a closure actuator.

In an embodiment, the communication system may include a transmitter configured to transmit information to a delivery service, recipient and/or sender.

In an embodiment, the communication system may be configured to provide wireless communication between the receptacle and at least one of the delivery service, the recipient and the sender. The communication system may include at least one wireless network transceiver to provide the wireless communication between the receptacle and at least one of the delivery service, the recipient, and the sender.

In a preferred embodiment, the wireless network transceiver(s) may include an internet receiver which is configured to connect the receptacle to an external computer network. The delivery service can communicate with the receptacle by connecting a delivery unit to the external computer network. Similarly, the recipient and/or the sender can also communicate with the receptacle by connecting to the internet. The internet transceiver may be a modem or a router.

Alternatively, or in addition, the wireless network transceiver(s) may connect the receptacle to at least one of a delivery unit, the recipient and/or the sender through a local area network.

Alternatively, or in addition, the wireless network transceiver(s) may include a Bluetooth module which is configured to facilitate wireless communication between the receptacle and one or more of a delivery service, recipient and sender over a short range of distance.

In an embodiment, the communication system may include a location signal generator configured to provide a location signal indicative of the receptacle's location.

In an embodiment, the location signal generator may include a GPS module which is configured to provide a GPS reference to guide the delivery service to the receptacle. Similarly, the GPS module can also guide the recipient and/or the sender to the receptacle.

In an embodiment, the control system may have a low power mode in which power consumption is relatively reduced. In these embodiments, the control system can be engaged to switch to a high-power mode for instance on receipt of a delivery signal or sensing movement and/or activation of any component of the receptacle.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include at least one sensor.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “sensor” should be understood as meaning a component configured to detect and/or measure a property of an item.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include at least one motion sensor. In a preferred embodiment, the motion sensor include at least one infrared sensor configured to detect the presence of a delivery service, recipient and/or sender.

In another embodiment, the control system may include an activation button which signals the presence of a delivery service, recipient and/or sender when the activation button is pressed.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include one or more tamper sensors.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “tamper sensor” should be understood as meaning a component configured to determine unauthorized attempts to access, or otherwise tamper with, the receptacle.

In an embodiment, the tamper sensor(s) may be an inertial measurement unit e.g. at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

In an embodiment, the communication system may be configured to transmit a tamper signal on detection of unauthorized access to the receptacle and/or any contents of the receptacle.

In another embodiment, the communication system may be configured to send a tamper signal indicating tampering with or unauthorized access to the receptacle.

In a preferred embodiment, the tamper signal may be a message, preferably sent to a delivery unit.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include one or more object recognition sensors.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “object recognition sensor” should be understood as meaning a component configured to identify an object placed in the receptacle.

For instance, in a preferred embodiment, the object recognition sensor(s) may be one or more weight sensors configured to weigh an item inside the receptacle. For instance, in these embodiments, the weight sensor(s) is/are configured to weigh the item(s) after it/they is/are placed in the receptacle.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the weight sensor(s) may be one or more load cells. However, alternative embodiments for the weight sensor(s) are envisaged.

In an alternative embodiment, the object recognition sensor(s) may include one or more image sensors.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “image sensor” should be understood as meaning a component configured to detect a property of an item placed in the receptacle, wherein the property is detected through radiation incident on the item.

In an embodiment, the image sensor(s) may include a camera.

In an embodiment, the object recognition sensor(s) may include a barcode scanner.

In an alternative embodiment, the object recognition sensor(s) may include an RFID tag reader.

In a preferred embodiment, the memory storage device(s) is/are configured to store the weight of the item(s).

In a preferred embodiment, the processing unit is configured to check the weight of the item(s) detected by the weight sensor(s) against the stored values of weight of each of the items.

Any reduction of weight of the receptacle measured by the weight sensors without authorization implies unauthorized removal and/or replacement of any item(s) inside the housing.

Alternatively, or in addition, the memory storage device(s) may be configured to store reference data to verify if item(s) placed in the receptacle is/are the correct one(s) by comparing the reference data against data collected by the image sensor, the barcode scanner and/or the RFID tag.

In an embodiment, the communication system is configured to transmit the tamper signal on receiving information of removal and/or replacement of item(s) from the receptacle.

In an embodiment, the receptacle may include an alarm system.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term “alarm system” should be understood as meaning a component or an assembly of components configured to generate an alarm signal on predetermined conditions e.g. unauthorized access into the cavity and/or tampering with the receptacle.

In an embodiment, the alarm signal may be a siren. Alternatively, the alarm signal may be information transmitted using the communication system e.g. to at least one of the delivery service, the recipient and the sender.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the technology will be described below by way of example only, and without intending to be limiting, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a receptacle according to the present technology in an expanded configuration;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the receptacle of FIG. 1A in a contracted configuration;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the receptacle in a contracted configuration located against a wall of a building and attached to a floor of the building;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the receptacle in an expanded configuration located against the wall of the building;

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of the receptacle in a contracted configuration located against and attached to the wall of the building;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the receptacle in a contracted configuration located on a collapsible frame against a wall;

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the receptacle in an expanded configuration located on collapsible frame against a wall;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the receptacle in an expanded configuration located against a door;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the receptacle according to an embodiment of the present technology;

FIG. 6A is an exploded view of the walls forming a cavity of the receptacle of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a top frame element of the receptacle of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 6C is a perspective view of a base of the receptacle of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the walls forming the cavity of the receptacle of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a side wall with respect to a top frame element of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 8B is a side view of the side wall with respect to the top frame element of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the housing of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 10A is an exploded view of a cover of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of a guide unit of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of actuators of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 12A is a perspective rear view of the receptacle without the side walls and the cover to show the inner components of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the actuators of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 13A is a close-up side view of a locking mechanism of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 13B is a close-up perspective view of the locking mechanism of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 13C is a close-up cross-sectional view of an arrangement to attach a bolt element of the locking mechanism of FIG. 13A to a hinge of an end wall plate;

FIG. 14A is a perspective front view of the receptacle without the cover and the two side walls to show some components of the receptacle of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 14B is a perspective front view of the receptacle of FIG. 14A with a base frame element;

FIG. 15 is a representative block diagram of a circuit of the receptacle according to an embodiment of the present technology;

FIG. 16 is a representative block diagram of a circuit of the receptacle according to an alternative embodiment of the present technology;

FIG. 17 shows perspective views of the receptacle in stages at and in between the contracted configuration and the expanded configuration;

FIG. 18 is a flow-chart of the delivery method using the receptacle in an embodiment of the present technology.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE TECHNOLOGY RECEPTACLE

Referring first to FIGS. 1A and 1B, showing perspective views of a receptacle (100) according to an aspect of the present technology. The receptacle (100) is configured to be placed in an expanded configuration as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1 n a contracted configuration as shown in FIG. 1B.

The expanded configuration facilitates delivery or sending of items (not shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B). However, in the contracted configuration at least one dimension of the receptacle (100) is reduced compared to when in the expanded configuration e.g. at least one of the height, the length and the width of the receptacle is reduced. This reduces the physical presence of the receptacle and its visibility when in the contracted configuration compared to the expanded configuration.

In the expanded configuration as shown in FIG. 1A the receptacle is substantially rectangular, while in the contracted configuration as shown in FIG. 1B the receptacle substantially resembles a floor mat. This is particularly useful because the receptacle (100) can be placed in front of a building and disguised as a floor mat (shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B) or entrance mat (shown in FIG. 4 ) when the receptacle (100) does not contain any items. As a result, the receptacle can comply with regulations or guidelines e.g. body corporate rules, while still enabling delivery and sending of items.

The placement of the receptacle (100) will help to ensure that in any configuration will not impede access into or out of a building relative to which it is placed.

Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C, the receptacle (100) may be positioned against a wall (14) of a building. The receptacle (100) may be securely attached to at least one of the floor (16) or the wall (14). In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the receptacle (100) is attached to the floor (16). In the alternative embodiment of FIG. 2C, the receptacle (100) is attached to the wall (14). In an embodiment, not shown in the Figures, the receptacle (100) may be attached to the wall (14) through a mounting bracket.

In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the receptacle (100) may be positioned against a collapsible frame (20) of the wall (14). The receptacle (100) may be securely attached to at least one of the floor (16), the wall (14) or the collapsible frame (20).

In an alternative embodiment, the receptacle (100) may be positioned adjacent to a door (12) of a building, as shown in FIG. 4 . The receptacle (100) may be secured to the floor (16) of the building in front of the door (12). FIG. 4 shows the receptacle (100) in the contracted configuration where it resembles a door mat. The receptacle (100) is preferably positioned with adequate clearance between the door (12) and the receptacle (100) so as to allow evacuation from the building through the door (12) in case of an emergency such as a fire.

Aspects of the receptacle (100) should become clearer from the following discussion.

Referring now to FIGS. 5, 6A, 6B, 6C, 7, 8A, 8B, 9, 10A and 10B which show components of a preferred form of the receptacle (100) according to a form of the technology.

In general terms, the receptacle (100) includes a housing indicated as (105).

The housing (105) includes a first end wall (112), a second end wall (113), a first side wall (114), a second side wall (115), a base (117) and a top wall (118).

A top frame element (119) facilitates attaching components of the housing (105) together. In the present embodiment, the top frame element (119) is a rim-like structure which defines an aperture (119A). The end walls (112, 113), side walls (114, 115), base (117) and the top wall (118) together define a cavity (120) when the receptacle (100) is in the expanded configuration.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown in the Figures), the top frame element may be a grid-like structure defining multiple apertures which provide access to multiple cavities of the receptacle. Each of these cavities may be compartmentalized and inaccessible through other cavities.

In the illustrated embodiment, one or more of the top frame element, walls and base (119, 112, 113, 114, 115, 117) are movable to enable the housing (105) to move between the contracted configuration and the expanded configuration.

The base (117) has relatively shorter edges (117B, 117C) which provide end sides of the base (117), and relatively longer edges (117D, 117E) which provide lateral sides of the base (117).

The top frame element (119) has relatively shorter edges (119B, 119C) which provide end sides of the top frame element (119), and relatively longer edges (119D, 119E) which provide the lateral sides of the top frame element (119).

The first side wall (114) is attached to the relatively longer edge (119D) of the top frame element (119) by a hinge (124). The second side wall (115) is attached to relatively longer edge (119E) by a hinge (125). In the embodiment of FIGS. 5, 6A, 6B, 6C, 7, 8A and 8B, the first side wall (114) and the second side wall (115) are not attached directly to the base (117).

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the hinges (124, 125) are identical to each other and therefore like references refer to like components. The hinges (124, 125) are each a rod hinge, formed by at least one sleeve (124SA, 125SA) provided on the relatively longer edges (119D, 119E) and at least one sleeve (1245B, 1255B) provided at or towards a top edge of the first side wall (114) and a top edge of the second side wall (115). A rod (124R) is disposed in the sleeves (124SA, 1245B) to facilitate rotational movement of the first side wall (114) and the second side wall (115) relative to the top frame element (119). Similarly, a rod (125R) is disposed in the sleeves (125SA, 1255B) to form the hinge (125).

The sleeves (124SA, 125SA) may be integrally formed with the respective edges (119D, 119E). Similarly, the sleeves (1245B, 1255B) may be integrally formed with the top edge of the first side wall (114) and the top edge of the second side wall (115).

In an alternative embodiment (not shown in the Figures) the sleeves (124SA, 125SA) may be fastened to the respective edges (119D, 119E). The sleeves (1245B, 1255B) may be fastened to the top edge of the first side wall (114) and the top edge of the second side wall (115) respectively. The means for fastening may include, but are not limited to screws, bolts, etc.

In alternative embodiments (not shown in the Figures), the hinges (124, 125) may be barrel hinges, spring hinges, etc.

The first side wall (114) and the second side wall (115) are preferably configured to rotate inwards when the receptacle (100) moves from the expanded configuration to the contracted configuration. This arrangement enables the receptacle (100) to have a compact contracted configuration.

In a preferred embodiment, the hinges (124, 125) have a restricted range of motion. For instance, the hinges (124, 125) are configured to restrict or prevent the first side wall (114) and the second side wall (115) rotating outwardly beyond a substantially vertical plane. This may assist in securing the receptacle (100) and preventing unauthorized access to any items inside the cavity.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a sub-assembly (121) in which the second side wall (115) is attached to the top frame element (119). A similar arrangement is used to attach the first side wall (114) to the top frame element (119) and hence is not illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B.

The receptacle (100) includes at least one biasing component indicated generally as (122) in FIGS. 5 and 8B. The biasing component(s) (122) are configured to urge the first side wall (114) and the second side wall (115) towards, and to preferably lie flat against, the top frame element (119).

In the illustrated embodiments, the biasing component(s) (122) are each a torsion spring. They could also be a leaf spring or a compression spring.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown in the Figures), each of the first side wall (114) and the second side wall (115) may be rotated by one or more rotary actuators.

The use of a/the biasing component(s) (122) is useful to facilitate the receptacle (100) being moved into the contracted configuration. For instance, the biasing component(s) (122) assist in minimizing the height of the receptacle (100) by moving the first side wall (114), the second side wall (115) and top frame element (119) towards an orientation in which they lie flat relative to each other, and preferably holding them in that configuration. In addition, the biasing component(s) (122) may reduce(s) the number of moving components required to move the receptacle (100) from the expanded configuration to the contracted configuration.

In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing components (122) are configured to bias the first side wall (114) and the second side wall (115) to rotate about the hinges (124, 125) e.g. when the cavity (120) is empty. However, the side walls (115) can rotate downwards when an item is moved through the aperture so that it's the weight of the items acts against the force of the biasing component(s) (122).

The first end wall (112) is provided by a first end wall plate (112B) and a second end wall plate (112C), and the second end wall (113) is a provided by a first end wall plate (113B) and a second end wall plate (113C).

The first end wall plate (112B) is attached to the second end wall plate (112C) by a hinge which is indicated generally as 112H. The first end wall plate (113B) is attached to the second end wall plate (113C) by a hinge which is indicated generally by 113H.

The first end wall plate (112B) is attached to the relatively short edge (119B) of the top frame element (119) by a hinge (126). The second end wall plate (112C) is attached to the relatively short edge (117B) of the base (117) through a hinge (128).

The first end wall plate (113B) is attached to the relatively short edge (119C) of the top frame element (119) by a hinge (127). The second end wall plate (113C) is attached to the relatively short edge (117C) of the base (117) through a hinge (129).

Each of the end walls (112, 113) is configured to fold inwardly toward the cavity (120) as the receptacle (100) moves from the expanded configuration to the contracted configuration. In the contracted configuration, the first end wall plate (112B) lies substantially flat against the second end wall plate (112C), while the first end wall plate (113B) lies substantially flat against the second end wall plate (113C).

The top wall (118) is connected to an edge of the top frame element (119) e.g. by the hinge (126).

In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge (126) is a rod hinge comprising a sleeve (126S) and a rod (126R). The sleeve (126S) may be integrally formed at a top end of the first end wall plate (113B). In an alternative embodiment (not shown in the Figures), the sleeve (126S) may be fastened to the first end wall plate (113B). The means of fastening may include fasteners such as, but not limited to screws, bolts, etc.

The top wall (118) provides a closure element for the receptacle (100).

In embodiments the top wall (118) may have a top layer that helps disguise the receptacle (100) as a mat. e.g. a layer of bristles, rubber mesh, paint or other material. Alternatively, the top wall (118) may be formed from materials which help to ensure that it looks like an upper surface of a door mat. The foregoing description is not to be seen as limiting the invention. Alternative finishes to the top wall (118) or any other component of the receptacle (100) may be provided.

When the receptacle (100) is disguised as a floor mat or a door mat, a load may be applied on the top wall (118) due to one or more persons standing on the disguised receptacle (100). In the contracted configuration, the receptacle (100) may be configured to transfer the load incident on the top wall (118) to the floor (16) through one or more of the hinges (112H, 113H, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129). Further, the top wall (118) may be made of a material with sufficient structural strength to enable the transfer of the load to the floor (16) without failing.

In embodiments, the receptacle (100) includes a cover (140) which can be, for example, provided in the form of a skirt (144).

The skirt (144) provides a weather-resistant exterior that protects items inside the cavity (120) and other components of the receptacle (100) e.g. from water, rain, snow or sunlight. For instance, the skirt (144) assists in preventing ingress of moisture into the cavity (120) through gaps between the walls, at the hinges etc.

Referring now to FIG. 10A, which shows an exploded view of the cover (140) including the skirt (144) relative to a base frame element (148), the top frame element (119) and the top wall (148). A lower edge (145) of the skirt (144) is attached to the base frame element (148), while a top edge (146) of the skirt (144) is attached to the top frame element (119).

The base frame element (148) is attached to the base (117) e.g. using screws, welding or adhesive. The base frame element (148) may define a tray into which components of the receptacle (100) can be folded when in the contracted configuration.

The skirt (144) is configured to rise and fall as the top frame element (119) moves up and down as the receptacle (100) is moved between the expanded configuration and the contracted configuration.

The receptacle (100) includes at least one guide unit (150) configured to guide the skirt (144) as the receptacle (100) moves between the expanded configuration and the contracted configuration.

Each guide unit (150) comprises a spring-loaded reel (152) with an elastic cable (154).

In the embodiment of FIG. 10B, a spring-loaded reel (152) is attached at or towards each corner of the base (117). The elastic cables (154) are attached to corresponding corners of the top frame element (119). Therefore, the elastic cables (154) unwind from the respective spring-loaded reel (152) as the top frame element (119) moves away from the base (117).

Similarly, the elastic cables (154) are wound back onto their respective spring-loaded reel (152) as the top frame element (119) moves towards the base (117). This arrangement helps to ensure that the skirt (144) may remain within the perimeter of the receptacle (100) in the contracted configuration. In addition, the guide unit (150) can help to prevent the skirt (144) tangling, and therefore facilitate operation of the receptacle (100).

In the illustrated embodiment, the skirt (144) is formed from a flexible material and/or a stretchable material, e.g. polypropylene or polyethylene. The skirt (144) could be also formed from other materials e.g. a textile material coated with a water-resistant coating like GORTEX™.

Actuators

In embodiments, the receptacle (100) includes at least one actuator (160) configured to move the receptacle (100) from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration.

In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator (160) is in the form of a pen actuator having a rod (163) and a cylinder (164). In use, the rod (163) extends and contracts within the cylinder (164) to move a distal end (163E) of the rod (163) relative to the cylinder (164).

The pen actuator (162) may have a screw-thread drive powered by a motor e.g. servo motor. The rod (163) may have a screw thread (not illustrated) which mesh a corresponding screw thread (not pictured). In use, rotation of the rod (163) causes the screw threads (not illustrated) to interact to translate rotational motion of the piston to extension and contraction.

The actuator (160) may also have a detector (shown in FIG. 15 ) that identifies if the rod (163) of the actuator (160) is extended or withdrawn. The detector may be a hall effect sensor or limit switch.

In use, expansion and/or contraction of the actuator (160) causes the receptacle (100) to move between the expanded configuration and contracted configuration.

As illustrated, the actuator (160) includes a linkage (166) comprising a first link arm (167). The first link arm (167) has a first end (167A) and a second end (167B). The first end (167A) of the first link arm (167) is attached to the distal end (163E) by an axle (175). The axle (175) is disposed in a guide (172) provided on the base (117).

The second end (167B) of the first link arm (167) is rotatably attached to the top frame element (119) by an axle (176).

An alternate embodiment for the actuator (160) is to replace the axle (176) with rotary actuator. In another alternative embodiment (not illustrated in the Figures), a rotary actuator may be configured to exert force on the axle (176) so as to rotate the axle (176).

As the actuator (160) expands and contracts, the axle (175) slides along the guide (172) as well as rotating. This causes the first link arm (167) to translate between a position substantially parallel to the base frame element (148) and a position orientated at an angle to the base frame element (148).

The linkage (166) also includes a second link arm (168) which helps to guide movement of the first link arm (167). The second link arm (168) includes a first end (168A) and a second end (168B), and is rotatably secured to the first link arm (167) by an axle (166X) located between the first end (167A) and the second end (167B).

The second link arm (168) prevents the first link arm (167) from being pulled horizontally by the actuator (160) in the direction of the actuator's (160) expansion/contraction. The restriction of horizontal motion provided by the second link arm (168) causes the first link arm (167) to translate the contraction of the actuator (160) substantially vertically, thereby moving the top frame element (119) substantially vertically.

The second end (168B) of the second link arm (168) is attached to the top frame element (119) by an axle (173) which is disposed in a guide (170) provided on the top frame element (119). The first end (168A) of the second link arm (168) is rotatably mounted to the base (117) by an axle (174).

In use, the axle (173) can slide within the guide (170) and allows the orientation of the second end (168B) relative to the top frame element (119) to change.

To move the receptacle (100) from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration, the pen actuator (162) is engaged and contracts, causing the distal end (163E) to move towards the cylinder (164).

This causes the axle (175), and thereby the first end (167A) of the first link arm (167), to move along the guide (172) towards the cylinder (164). The axle (176) rotates causing the orientation of the first link arm (167) with respect to the base frame element (148) to change and forcing the second end (167B) generally upwards. The second link arm (168) and the first link arm (167) rotate with respect to each other about axle (166X).

In addition, the axle (173) is moved upwards and generally along the length of the receptacle (100) in the direction of edge (119E), along the guide (170). This forces the second end (168B) generally upwards.

To move the receptacle (100) from the expanded configuration to the contracted configuration, the above process is reversed. That is, the actuator (160) is engaged to expand, which moves the first link arm (167) towards an orientation in which it is substantially parallel to the bottom frame element (148).

The receptacle (100) includes a closure actuator, indicated generally as (180), which is configured to move the top wall (118) to thereby open and/or close the receptacle (100).

In the illustrated embodiment, the closure actuator (180) is a linear actuator, preferably a pen actuator comprising a rod (178) and a cylinder (179). The cylinder (179) is mounted to a hinge (132) which extends from the hinge (113H). Alternatively, the cylinder (179) may be directly mounted to the hinge (113H). The rod (178) has a distal end (178E) which is rotatably connected to the top wall (118) by an axle (182).

Alternatively, the closure actuator (180) may be a rotary actuator or other suitable actuator mechanism. The rotary actuator may be attached to the hinge (126).

To open the top wall (118), the closure actuator (180) is engaged to expand which moves distal end (178E) away from cylinder (179). The distal end (178E) rotates about axle (182) and applies force to cause the top wall (118) to rotate about the hinge(s) (126).

To close the receptacle (100) the process is reversed. That is, the closure actuator (180) is engaged to contract. This moves the distal end (178E) towards the cylinder (179) which applies force to the top wall (118) causing it to rotate about hinge(s) (126) to block the aperture (119A).

Locking Mechanism

The receptacle in the illustrated embodiment includes a locking mechanism (184) which is configured to prevent unauthorized movement of the top wall (118). Therefore, the locking mechanism assists in preventing unauthorized access into the receptacle (100). FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C show close up views of the locking mechanism (184).

The locking mechanism (184) in the illustrated embodiment is a solenoid lock.

Alternatively, the locking mechanism (184) may be a mechanical lock operated by levers and opened by one or more physical keys.

In the present embodiment, the locking mechanism (184) includes a bolt element (184B) which is configured to be inserted through a catch or a hook (185). The bolt element (184B) may be attached to the top frame element (119) and the catch or hook (185) may be located on the top wall (118), and vice versa. When the bolt element (184B) engages the catch or hook (185) the locking mechanism (184) is in a locked configuration which prevents the top wall (118) being moved. When the bolt element (184B) does not engage the catch or hook (185) the locking mechanism is in an unlocked configuration and the top wall (118) can be moved.

The bolt element (184B) may be locked relative to the hinge (127) e.g. by threading the bolt element (184B) to an end (127A) of a rod (127R) of the hinge (127), as shown in FIG. 13C.

The locking mechanism (184) may be configured to maintain its position with respect to the end wall plate (112B) and the hinge (127) when the receptacle (100) moves between the expanded configuration and the contracted configuration. For instance, a circlip (127C), as shown in FIGS. 13B and 13C attaches to a sleeve (112BS) provided on the end plate (112B) and to the rod (127R).

Control System

In embodiments, the receptacle includes a control system.

Referring now to FIGS. 5, 14A and 14B which show the components of the control system and their location in the receptacle (100).

The control system includes a processing unit (1002) which is in communication with, and configured to control operation of, one or more of the other components of the receptacle e.g. the drive actuator (162) and the closure actuator (180).

Referring now to FIG. 14A in which the control system includes the processing unit (1002) and a battery pack (1004). The battery pack (1004) allows the receptacle (100) to function as a stand-alone apparatus and dispenses with the need for a tethered power connection. This implies that the receptacle (100) may be placed anywhere without a requirement to be located close to a source of power, such as an electric socket.

The processing unit (1002) and the battery pack (1004) are typically heavy. Locating heavy components on a moving part of the housing (105) would hinder moving the receptacle to the expanded configuration. Therefore, the processing unit (1002) and/or the battery pack (1004) are preferably placed as close as possible to the floor (16).

In the embodiment of FIGS. 5, 14A and 14B, the processing unit (1002) and the battery pack (1004) are placed on the base (117), preferably outside the cavity (120).

The components of the control system are preferably not located inside or under the cavity (120) as it reduces the amount of space available for items to be placed inside the cavity (120). Therefore, at least some components of the control system are located on the edges of the base (117), preferably under the base frame element (148). Therefore, the material of the base frame element (148) preferably has the strength to protect any sensitive components of the control system placed beneath it.

In embodiments where the contracted configuration is a mat configuration, such as the one in FIGS. 1B and 2A, the base frame element (148) may form a boundary around the top wall (118) when the receptacle (100) is placed in the mat configuration. The base frame element (148) may have an appearance like the top layer on the top wall (118).

The processing unit (1002) and the battery pack (1004) are usually weather-sensitive. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 14B, the processing unit (1002) and the battery pack (1004) are covered by the base frame element (148) to protect the weather-sensitive components (1002, 1004). Accordingly, it is preferable that the base frame element (148) be made of a weather-resistant material.

In an embodiment, the control system may be configured to control the actuator(s) (160). The processing unit (1002) transmits instructions to initiate the drive unit (162) to place the housing (105) in an expanded configuration and/or a contracted configuration.

In an embodiment, the control system may be configured to provide selective access to the cavity (120) by controlling the opening and/or closing of the top wall (118). The processing unit (1002) transmits instructions to the closure actuator (180) to open and/or close the top wall (118). Further, the processing unit (1002) also locks and/or unlocks the top wall (118) by controlling the locking mechanism (184).

Sensors

In embodiments, the receptacle (100) may include one or more sensors. The sensor(s) are configured to independently or in combination measure different parameters.

In the illustrated embodiments, the sensor(s) include load cells (1012). The load cells (1012), as shown in FIG. 5 , are located below the base (117) on or towards each corner of the base (117). The load cells (1012) are weight sensors which are configured to measure weight of the items inside the cavity (120) and transmit data related to the measured weight to the processing unit (1002).

In an embodiment (not shown in the Figures), the sensor(s) may include at least one dimension sensor (not shown in the Figures) to measure at least one dimension of each item in the receptacle (100).

First Embodiment of a Circuit

Referring now to FIG. 15 which shows a block representation of a circuit (1025) which connects the control system to the sensor(s) and components of the actuator(s) (160) according to the embodiment of FIG. 5 .

The circuit (1025) connects the processing unit (1002), the battery pack (1004), the locking mechanism (184), the closure actuator (180), the drive unit (162) and the one or more sensors. The circuit (1025) facilitates transmission of information from the processing unit (1002) and the other components on the circuit (1025). The circuit (1025) also facilitates transmission of feedback from the other components on the circuit (1025) to the processing unit (1002). The battery pack (1004) is connected to the processing unit (1002) to transmit power.

The circuit (1025) may also include a closure actuator limit switch (1027) which detects if the closure actuator (180) is extended or collapsed. The closure actuator limit switch (1027) helps to ensures that motor drives of the closure actuator (180) do not overextend or over compress the closure actuator (180). This may reduce or prevent undue stress on transmission components of the closure actuator (180) and its motor. The closure actuator limit switch (1027) also ensures a level of redundancy.

Second Embodiment of the Circuit

Referring now to FIG. 16 which shows a block representation of a circuit (2025) which connects the control system, the sensor(s) and the communication system.

The circuit (2025) connects the processing unit (1002), the load cell(s) (1012), a memory storage device (2048), a Bluetooth module (2044) which includes, a receiver and a transmitter.

For instance, the Bluetooth module may be a BTLE module, which is a low energy module. Alternative Bluetooth modules or components may also be used.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16 , the delivery entity (10) communicates with the receptacle (100) through a device having a circuit (3060). The circuit (3060) connects a processing unit (3002), a memory storage device (3048), a Bluetooth module (3044), an internet receiver (3042) and a GPS module (3062). The Bluetooth module (2044) is configured to include a receiver and a transmitter.

The memory storage device (3048) includes information related to a delivery route to the receptacle (100). The GPS module (3062) provides GPS data to guide the delivery service (10) along the delivery route stored in the memory storage device (3048).

When the delivery service (10) comes within range of the Bluetooth module (2044), the Bluetooth module (3044) establishes connection with the Bluetooth module (2044). The transmitter (3050) sends one or more of a wakeup signal, a user ID signal and delivery data to the receiver in the Bluetooth module (2044) which relays the received data to the processing unit (1002). The processing unit (1002) matches the received data against corresponding data stored in the memory storage device (2048).

On confirming that the delivery service (10) is authorized, the receptacle (100) is opened to allow access to the cavity (120). After an item is delivered and/or picked up from the receptacle (100), the load cell(s) (1012) measure weight difference and relays the same to the processing unit (1002). The processing unit (1002) matches the weight difference against weight value of the item stored in the memory storage device (2048).

The respective weight values of the items may be transmitted to the memory storage device (2048) through the Bluetooth module (2044). Data of the weight values may be transmitted in discrete data packet or continuously.

Alternatively (not shown in the Figure), the communication system may include a wire-tethered receiver which may be connected to an input device. The respective weight values of the items may be entered into the memory storage device (2048) through the input device.

On confirming that the correct item is delivered to and/or picked up from the receptacle (100), the transmitter in the Bluetooth module (2044) sends information to the receiver (3046) confirming successful delivery and/or pick-up.

The receiver (3046) relays the information to the processing unit (3002) which initiates the internet receiver (3042). On connecting a delivery unit of the delivery service (10) to the internet, the transmitter (3050) sends confirmation of successful delivery and/or pick-up to a recipient and/or a sender respectively.

If the delivery and/or pick-up is unsuccessful, the transmitter (3050) is configured to send information of the failed delivery and/or pick-up to the recipient and/or the sender respectively.

Method

Referring now to FIG. 17A to 17E which shows the steps of the receptacle (100) moving from the contracted configuration and the expanded configuration.

The receptacle (100), when not in use, is in the contracted configuration. If one or more items are to be delivered to and/or sent from the receptacle (100), the receptacle (100) is placed in the expanded configuration.

The receptacle (100), on being triggered to be placed from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration, initiates the actuator (160). The actuator (160) contracts to move the top frame element (119) upwardly. The hinged plates (112B, 112C, 113B, 113C) of each end wall (112, 113) begin to unfold as the top frame element (119) rises upward. The elastic cables (154) unwind and the skirt (not shown in FIG. 16 ) begins to rise. This stage is shown in FIG. 17B.

As the top frame element (119) moves further upward, the elastic cables (154) unwinds further and the hinged plates (112B, 112C, 113B, 113C) of the end walls (112, 113) further unfold. This stage is shown in FIG. 17C.

In the stage shown by FIG. 17D, the plates (112B, 112C, 113B, 113C) of the end walls (112, 113) align in a substantially straight line. The actuator (160) stops contracting and therefore the top frame element (119) stops moving. The control system unlocks the top wall (118).

In an alternative embodiment, the control system may ascertain that the delivery service (10) seeking access to the receptacle (100) is authorized to do so. Only if the delivery service (10) is authorized, the control system will initiate the receptacle (100) to be placed in an expanded configuration and/or unlock the top wall (118).

As illustrated in FIG. 17E, the cavity (120) is formed when an item is placed inside the receptacle (100). The side walls (114, 115) are forced down by the weight of the object or item counterweighing the biasing components (122).

The control system is configured to lock the receptacle (100) after confirming that the delivery is successfully made.

Once the item(s) which are secured by the receptacle are removed, the receptacle (100) goes through stages 16E, 16D, 16C, 16B and 16A, in the mentioned order to revert to the contracted configuration.

Referring now to FIG. 18 which shows representative steps in a method of delivering items according to an aspect of the technology.

At step A, a receptacle (100) as substantially described herein is positioned in a delivery location e.g. offset from the front of a door (12) beside or attached to a building. The receptacle (100) is in the contracted configuration as shown in FIGS. 1B, 2A, 2C, 3B and 17A e.g. at least one dimensions is relatively reduced compared to when the receptacle is in the expanded configuration.

At step B a delivery signal is transmitted to the receptacle (100) and received by the communication system.

At step C, the processing unit (1002) is configured to check details of the delivery signal to determine whether the receptacle (100) is to receive an item to be delivered. If the delivery signal is approved, then the processing unit (1002) engages the actuator (160) to contract and move the receptacle (100) from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration.

The above step allows the receptacle (100) to be in the expanded configuration when a delivery service (10) arrives at the delivery location. According, this may reduce delivery times by removing the need for the receptacle (100) to be configured only after the delivery service (10) arrives.

If the delivery signal is not approved, the processing unit (1002) may:

-   -   send a signal indicating that the delivery is not to be         received;     -   take no action;     -   engage the actuator (160) to move the receptacle (100) to the         expanded configuration notwithstanding that an access code is         incorrect. At step D the delivery service (10) sends a signal to         the receptacle (100) which is received by the communication         system. The processing unit (1002) is configured to engage the         closure actuator (180) to move the top wall (118) relative to         the top frame element (119) and thereby to allow access into the         cavity (120).

At step E, the delivery service (10) places the item(s) in the cavity (120). The load cells (1012) measure the weight difference of the receptacle (100) due to weight of the delivered items and relay this data to the processing unit (1002). The processing unit (1002) matches the weight difference measured by the load cells (1012) against values of weight corresponding to each of the items. The weight values may be stored in the memory storage device (2048).

At step F, the processing unit (1002) initiates the closure actuator (180) to close the top wall (118). Next, the closure mechanism (184) is triggered to lock the top wall (118).

The following steps follow step F based on the weight difference measured by the load cells (1012) and instructions provided by the recipient and/or the sender:

-   -   If the weight difference measured by the load cells (1012) is 0,         then step G is initiated;     -   If the weight difference measured by the load cells (1012) is         not equal to the stored weight values of each of the items to be         delivered, then step H is initiated; and     -   If the weight difference measured by the load cells (1012) is         within a specific tolerance, e.g. 5% of the stored weight values         of the item(s) to be delivered, then step I is initiated.

In step G, the processing unit (1002) initiates the actuators (160) to place the receptacle (100) in the contracted arrangement. The processing unit (1002) also instructs the communication system to send a message indicating that no item was delivered. to the recipient.

In step H, the processing unit (1002) instructs the communication system to send a message indicating wrong delivery to the recipient and/or the delivery service (10). Further, the receptacle (100) may be configured to allow the delivery service (10) to access the cavity (120) to replace the wrong item with the item. The receptacle (100) may require the delivery service (10) to resupply credentials before allowing access to the cavity (120).

In step I, the processing unit (1002) instructs the communication system to send a message indicating successful delivery to the recipient and/or the delivery service (10).

Alternatively, or in addition to sending a message, information of no delivery, wrong delivery and/or successful delivery, may be uploaded to an external cloud or to the memory storage device (2048). This ensures that proof of no delivery, a missed delivery and/or successful delivery remains recorded even if the recipient loses the message sent by the communication system.

The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications cited above and below, if any, are herein incorporated by reference.

Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor in any country in the world.

The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the present invention.

The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A receptacle for a delivery system, wherein the receptacle comprises: a housing configured to be arranged in an expanded configuration and a contracted configuration, wherein in the expanded configuration the housing defines a cavity to receive one or more items, and an actuator configured to move the housing from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration.
 2. A receptacle for a delivery system, wherein the receptacle comprises a housing that defines a cavity configured to receive one or more items, wherein the housing is configured to, on receipt of a delivery signal, allow access into the cavity.
 3. A receptacle for a delivery system, wherein the receptacle comprises: a housing that defines a cavity configured to receive one or more items, a sensor configured to detect at least one of tampering and unauthorized access to the cavity, and an alarm system configured to generate an alarm signal indicating that the sensor has detected tampering or unauthorized access.
 4. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is substantially weatherproof.
 5. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is configured to protect a/the item(s) inside the cavity from one or more of water, wind and solar radiation.
 6. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle further includes a cover which is configured to close the cavity.
 7. The receptacle of claim 6, wherein the cover is configured to seal the cavity.
 8. The receptacle of claim 7, wherein the housing includes one or more panels that define the cavity when the receptacle is in the expanded configuration.
 9. The receptacle of claim 8, wherein a first panel and a second panel provide, respectively a first side wall of the housing and a second side wall of the housing.
 10. The receptacle of claim 8, wherein a third panel and a fourth panel provide, respectively, a first end walls of the housing and a second end wall of the housing.
 11. The receptacle of claim 8, wherein a fifth panel provides a base wall for the housing.
 12. The receptacle of claim 8, wherein a sixth panel provides a top wall for the housing.
 13. The receptacle of claim 8, wherein the panels together form a rectangular parallelepiped when the receptacle is in the expanded configuration.
 14. The receptacle of claim 8, wherein the panels together form a cuboid when the receptacle is in the expanded configuration.
 15. The receptacle of claim 8, wherein the panels are moveably attached to each other.
 16. The receptacle of claim 15, wherein the panels are hingeably attached to each other.
 17. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the housing includes an opening configured to facilitate a/the items to be placed into the cavity.
 18. The receptacle of claim 17, wherein the housing further includes at least one closure element which is configured to selectively allow access to the cavity through the at least one opening.
 19. The receptacle of claim 18, wherein the closure element is provided by one or more panels.
 20. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle further includes one or more fasteners which are configured to secure the receptacle to a location.
 21. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is configured to have a low profile in a/the contracted configuration compared to the profile of the receptacle when in a/the expanded configuration.
 22. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is configured to resemble a door mat in a/the contracted configuration.
 23. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the actuator includes one or more of a linear actuator, a rotary actuator, a spring-based actuator, a screw thread actuator, a hydraulic ram, and a pneumatic.
 24. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the actuator further includes a linkage which is configured to transfer force provided by the actuator to other components of the receptacle.
 25. The receptacle of claim 24, wherein the linkage includes one or more link arms.
 26. The receptacle of claim 24, wherein the linkage includes an X-linkage having a pair of link arms.
 27. The receptacle of claim 24, wherein the linkage includes a telescoping component.
 28. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle further includes a control system.
 29. The receptacle of claim 28, wherein the control system includes at least one processing unit.
 30. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle further includes a communication system.
 31. The receptacle of claim 30, wherein the communication system includes at least one wireless network transceiver to provide wireless communication between the receiver and at least one of a/the delivery service, the recipient and a/the sender.
 32. The receptacle of claim 30, wherein the communication system includes a module configured to provide a location signal indicative of the location of the receptacle.
 33. The receptacle of claim 32, wherein the location signal generator comprises a GPS module which can provide a GPS reference.
 34. The receptacle of claim 28, wherein the control system includes a memory storage device which is configured to store user-confirmation data to verify whether a/the delivery service, a/the recipient and/or a/the sender is authorized to access a/the cavity.
 35. The receptacle of claim 34, wherein the control system is configured to compare a data transmitted by a delivery signal to user-confirmation data stored in the memory storage to determine whether a delivery service, a recipient and/or a sender is authorized to access the cavity.
 36. The receptacle of claim 30, wherein the communication system is configured to send and receive communication signals with at least one of a delivery service, a recipient, and a sender.
 37. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle further includes a sensor.
 38. The receptacle of claim 37, wherein the sensor is configured to detect and/or measure a property of an item.
 39. The receptacle of claim 37, wherein the sensor is a motion sensor.
 40. The receptacle of claim 39, wherein the motion sensor is an infrared sensor configured to detect the presence of at least one of a delivery service, a recipient and/or a sender.
 41. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein a/the control system includes an activation button which, when pressed, sends a signal indicative of presence of a delivery service, recipient and/or sender.
 42. The receptacle of claim 1, which further includes one or more tamper sensors.
 43. The receptacle of claim 42, wherein the tamper sensor is configured to determine unauthorized attempts to access, or otherwise tamper with, the receptacle.
 44. The receptacle of claim 42, wherein the tamper sensor is at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.
 45. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle includes one or more object recognition sensors.
 46. The receptacle of claim 45, wherein the object recognition sensor includes one or more image sensors.
 47. The receptacle of claim 46, wherein the image sensor is a camera.
 48. The receptacle of claim 46, wherein the object recognition sensor is selected from the list of an RFID tag reader, a barcode scanner and scales configured to weigh an item located in the cavity.
 49. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the receptacle further includes an alarm system.
 50. The receptacle as of claim 49, wherein the alarm system is configured to generate an alarm signal indicating that the sensor has detected tampering or unauthorized access.
 51. A delivery system comprising a receptacle of claim 1 and a delivery service, wherein the delivery service and the receptacle are configured to communicate with each other, wherein the housing is configured to be moved from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration by the actuator when the receptacle receives a delivery signal from the delivery service. 